Hi everyone! I'm new to this Board so be kindly. I own a 2004 mazda 3 i screwed up yesturday with it. I tried to start the car and had the key turned all the way, but I accidently released the key to early and the car kind of died. Now there is a flashing red car w/a key in blinking. mazda roadside said it's a theft security feature and it's cover under warranty, but I hate to have it towed all the way over there to get it fix. I wonder if anyone know how to reset it so it will let me start the engine. Any response will be greatly appreciate it. Thank You

 

un hook your battery for like 10 minutes that should work

 

Ty, I will try that and hopefully I get it started before the mazda tow truck is here. LOL

 

did it work???

 

In North America the 3 comes with a ignition immobilizer that requires transponder keys to operate it. When there isn't a key in the ignition then that light should flash every 5 seconds or so as a theft deterrent.... that's normal.

If it's flashing quickly with the key in the ignition then that means the computer is reading your key as not programmed in and it won't let it start. I've never heard of accidentally releasing the key before the starter catches causing something like this though, and I've done that before.

Good luck.

 

Hey guys the same thing is going on with my 06, and we tried the battery thing and it didn't work so if you could tell me how you fixed it.. That would really help

 

Hey guys the same thing is going on with my 06, and we tried the battery thing and it didn't work so if you could tell me how you fixed it.. That would really help

 

I jiggled my key around in the ignition and applied above average pressure. Worked for me. Simple but worth a shot